Research Analyst 2

The Catherine Cutler Institute at the University of Southern Maine is seeking a Research Analyst II for its Justice Policy Program (JPP).  

The Justice Policy Program (JPP) at the Cutler Institute for Health and Social Policy informs policy development and practice in civil, criminal, and social justice systems in Maine and nationally. Our applied research, training, and technical assistance builds capacity and improves community health and public safety.

The Research Analyst II for the Justice Policy Program works individually and in a supportive team environment to plan, design, and provide day-to-day coordination of applied research and programmatic activities for local, state, and national grant programs. In collaboration with senior staff, the position supports the management of project timelines, budgets, and key deliverables, as well as the development and scoping of new projects. The position collaborates independently with external partners to plan meetings and make strategic recommendations related to shared initiatives. Additionally, the position acts as a key point of contact for external stakeholders. This team will primarily support the Place Matters team within the Catherine Cutler Institute, with some project specific work in collaboration with the Data Innovation Project (DIP). This is a grant-funded position that will mainly support local youth and family justice focused projects, and capacity-building efforts with public systems partners and mission-driven organizations.

This is a grant funded position with a starting annual salary up to $54,500 with benefits.  

The University of Southern Maine offers highly competitive benefits for full-time and eligible part-time employees that includes (but is not limited to):

• 13 paid holidays plus earned vacation time and sick time.
• Health, dental and vision insurance.
• Low-cost short-term disability insurance and employer-paid long-term disability insurance.
• Employer-paid basic life insurance and supplemental life insurance.
• A tuition waiver program for employees and their spouse or dependent child(ren).
• A 403(b)-retirement plan with employer contribution.
• Free access to the METRO system, including the Husky Line with service between our Portland and Gorham campuses.

To learn more, please review the Benefits Information Summary.  

The University of Southern Maine is a vibrant academic community located in the greater Portland, Maine area, including campuses in Portland, Gorham, Lewiston, and online. USM is part of the University of Maine System and offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing hands-on learning, community engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With a highly engaged student-centered learning environment, USM is a steward of higher education, helping drive the economic, cultural, and civic life in the communities where our campuses are located and beyond.  USM is committed to providing expanded access to high-quality education that elevates economic opportunity and contributes significantly to the vitality of a diverse society. To learn more about USM, visit About Our University. 

The University of Southern Maine fosters a welcoming and supportive campus environment that respects and appreciates varied perspectives, enhancing teaching, learning, personal growth, and overall institutional achievement.  We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds who share our dedication to academic excellence and the enrichment of our community.

We are dedicated to our Service Promise, Student Focused Every Day and seek a team member who embraces this commitment and upholds our core values of Respect & Care, Integrity, Equity, and Responsiveness.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree and 3 years of relevant experience or Master’s degree and 1 year of experience.
• Basic qualitative data analysis experience and knowledge, quantitative experience a plus.
• Ability to participate in project-related writing and experience writing research reports and policy briefs.
• Experience in secondary research and developing literature reviews.
• Demonstrated organizational, work management, and group process skills, ability to take initiative to identify and propose new tasks and procedures.
• Communication skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Strong relational skills, group facilitation, and presentation skills and strong interest in working with collaborations.
• Skills and experience using Microsoft and Google applications.  
• Knowledge of criminal legal system and other public systems a plus.
• Desire to learn, grow, and be a part of a supportive team.

How to apply:

Click on the ‘Apply Now’ button below or visit our USM Careers Page and submit the following:

• Cover Letter
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae
• Finalist candidates will be asked to provide a list of the names and contact information for references.

For full consideration please submit all required materials by October 8, 2025.

We are not able to consider applicants who require Visa sponsorship support.

Appropriate background screening will be conducted for the successful candidate.

Clery Act:

The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, or Clery Act, mandates that all Title IV institutions, such as the University, prepare, publish, and distribute an Annual Security Report (ASR), and provide notice of the availability of the ASR to all prospective employees. This report consists of two basic parts: disclosure of the University’s crime statistics for the past three calendar years; and disclosures regarding the University’s current campus security policies. View the University’s Annual Security Report (PDF). If you wish to have a paper copy of the ASR or need to have a copy of the ASR in an accessible format, the University will provide such a copy upon request. Please contact our Public Safety Office at 207.780.5211.

EEO Statement:

The University of Southern Maine is an EEO/AA employer and is committed to nondiscrimination. For inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies, please contact the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Services, 5713 Chadbourne Hall, Room 412, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469-5713, 207-581-1226.  TTY 711 (Maine Relay System)